Gasperini Angrily Defends Pellegrini: ‘Leave Him Alone’
Following Roma's 1-1 draw against Bologna in the Europa League, head coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressed his frustration with reporters during the post-match press conference, emphatically stating that they should ‘leave Lorenzo Pellegrini alone.’
Pellegrini, who entered the Round of 16 clash at Stadio Dall’Ara as a substitute, netted what proved to be a crucial equalizer, nullifying Federico Bernardeschi's opening goal.
This vital goal came mere days after Pellegrini's lackluster display against Genoa. Consequently, when journalists questioned Gasperini about the former captain's form and situation, the coach displayed clear annoyance.
Gasperini Stands Up for Midfielder Pellegrini
“Leave the poor lad alone,” Gasperini retorted. “He performs well in some matches and less so in others, just like any player. His goal today doesn't alter our overall assessment of him. It's essential to remain objective.”
Pellegrini's current contract is set to expire on June 30th. It appears improbable that Roma will successfully negotiate a new agreement with the midfielder, who has spent the vast majority of his professional career at the Stadio Olimpico.
Reporters also probed Gasperini about the injury status of Manu Koné and Matias Soulé, neither of whom were present on the substitutes' bench for the match.
“Realistically, I don't anticipate Soulé's return until after the upcoming international break, and even then, precise predictions are challenging,” Gasperini stated. Regarding Koné, he explained, “This is the first European fixture he's missed with us. He hadn't fully recovered from the Genoa game, and we opted against taking any risks, especially with an upcoming match against Como followed by the second leg against Bologna.”
Fresh materials — Sport news
Serie A: Juventus vs. Bologna, Verona vs. Milan, Pisa vs. Genoa - Live Updates
This is a live blog covering several Serie A matches. We will provide real-time updates, key events, and results as they unfold. Stay tuned for the latest from Juventus vs. Bologna, Verona vs. Milan, and Pisa vs. Genoa. Juventus vs. Bologna Get ready for the clash between Juventus and
Inter's Path to Serie A Title Glory Next Weekend
Inter Milan stands on the brink of securing the 2025-26 Serie A title, with a potential championship-clinching victory next weekend contingent on a win against Torino and specific outcomes in matches involving Napoli and Milan. Following their decisive 3-0 victory over Cagliari, Inter has
Besiktas Pursues Juventus Winger Edon Zhegrova After Challenging First Season
Edon Zhegrova's tenure at Juventus appears likely to conclude after a single season, with Turkish club Besiktas having initiated contact with the Kosovo winger's agent regarding a potential summer move. According to reports from Turkish newspaper Fanatik, relayed by IlBianconero, the Koso
Milan Expresses Interest in Napoli's Spinazzola for Free Transfer
The future of Leonardo Spinazzola at Napoli appears increasingly uncertain. The experienced left-back has yet to receive any indication from the club regarding an extension to his contract, which is set to expire in June. Consequently, his representatives have begun exploring alternative option
Abodi Hits Back at Outgoing FIGC President Gravina: ‘Always Because of Politics’
Italian Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi has countered the assertions of the departing FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, who implied that the football association lacked sufficient governmental backing. Abodi stated that "when things go wrong, it's always because of politics." Gravina announced his d
Lotito Advocates for Special Commissioner to Restructure Italian Football Federation (FIGC)
Lazio owner Claudio Lotito has voiced his disagreement with the majority of Serie A clubs who support Giovanni Malagò as the next President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Lotito contends that a fundamental restructuring of the entire system is necessary, rather than simply appointi